John and Thady Gosdens’ reliable 6 year old Lord North scored in this race 2 years ago but an injury saw him miss his chance to recapture the crown last season.
After graduating from handicap company he easily captured listed honours and a group 3 event on his way to his group 1 victory here at Ascot.
A slight dip in form later in the season saw him return in March last year with a spellbinding performance in Meydan to score another group 1 in fine fashion.
Despite being beaten by Alenquer at Lingfield on reappearance he made a great trip over to Meydan again for another group 1 win.
Last seen running well in the Tattersalls Gold Cup he again saw Alenquer get the better of him. He’s still in fine form though and has shown a liking for this course and distance.
A real threat to the favourite.